Shovel Knight

Another knight to feature on this list is Shovel Knight, an 8-bit adventure featuring a knight with nothing but, you guessed it, a shovel. Digging his way to victory and using the gardening tool to vanquish enemies, it’s a delightful little adventure.

Not only that, but the Treasure Trove edition also comes with various new modes, including a multiplayer brawler. It’s a fantastic package and one that undoubtedly deserves your time.

These are all fantastic platformers you can play on the Xbox Series X today thanks to the platform's backwards compatibility. What are some of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below!

Hollow Knight

Often heralded as a masterpiece, Hollow Knight earns that title. With swift responsiveness that works well with the simplistic combat, exploring its labyrinthine world is full of mystery and wonder.

It’s certainly a challenging game, but like many others on this list is insanely rewarding once the challenges have been overcome. With a sequel on the horizon, now is the perfect time to dive into the iconic game.

New Super Lucky’s Tale

Super Lucky’s Tale was already a fun little platformer, but the re-imagining does so much new it may as well act as a sequel. With brand new level variants, improvements on the original formula and tighter controls, New Super Lucky’s Tale feels like the game that was originally intended and a great inclusion into the Xbox Series X’s library of platformers.

Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair

If Banjo-Tooie and Conker Live & Reloaded weren’t enough Rare goodness then Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible acts as a 2D spiritual successor to the developers previous games. As a chameleon, you’ll utilize an array of powers and venture out into worlds inspired by platformers of yesteryear.

What makes the Impossible Lair so different is the ability to attempt the final level at any time, using the other levels as a means to power up your character. It’s a great mechanic and one that works extremely well for both newcomers and hardcore players.

Rayman Legends

When Rayman Origins released, it delivered a fantastic 2D platforming experience than none of us knew we wanted. With the sequel, everything is improved.

Rayman Origins was already fantastic, but Legends adds more inventive platforming challenges, excellent co-operative play and immensely impressive music based stages. It’s a wonderful game and one that doesn’t quite get the attention it deserves.

Cuphead

Speaking of brutally hard, Cuphead is one of the top contenders. Don’t be fooled by its 1930s animated style as each level is infused with a devilishly hard boss to tackle.

Despite the difficulty, discovering each boss, learning their patterns and eventually overcoming them is an immensely rewarding experience, making getting to the end a satisfying adventure.

Celeste

Not many Platformers come accompanied with an emotionally charged story, but Celeste not only manages to do that, but also manages to embed it into its gameplay.

Exploring themes such mental health and anxiety, the trial and error gameplay lends itself beautifully to the narrative situations it puts the players through. For once, a game being brutally hard has an actual connotation and creates one of the best platformers ever made.

Conker Live & Reloaded

Another classic platformer by Rare, the loud mouthed squirrel offers something more adult for those who are fans of the genre.

Live & Reloaded is an updated version of the original Nintendo 64 version and while some of the content was cut, it’s spirit remains intact.

The Xbox Series X does a wonderful job of bolstering it to the point that it could pass as a modern day release. Enjoy its crude humor and inventive ways it works with the platforming genre.

A Hat In Time

Invoking inspirations from industry titans such as Super Mario 64, A Hat In Time quickly manages to be so much more. The genre shifting adventure at one minute can be a fantastical platforming adventure, before turning into a murder mystery.

Running throughout all of this is an enormously fun platforming adventure that you won’t want end, even after you’ve collected all of the collectibles

Banjo-Tooie

Not only one of the greatest platformers to play on the Xbox Series X, but one of the greatest of all time. Banjo-Tooie builds upon its predecessor with a vast, open-ended way of tackling its various, colorful worlds.

Each corner is brimming with personality and it’s collect-a-thon gameplay is addictive till the very end. Hopefully one day we receive another entry, until then, check out one of the original entries that defined the genre.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps

Following on from the absolutely wonderful Ori and the Blind Forest, the sequel manages to create something truly special. It was always going to be hard following on from the original, but Ori and the Will of the Wisps does it with ease, with a breakneck pace that gives you more toys to play with at a faster rate.

Accompanied by a beautiful art style and emotional storyline, it’s hard not be enamored the moment the game starts.

Spyro Reignited Trilogy

Speaking of classic platforming heroes returning, the Spyro Reignited Trilogy is a perfect example of another franchise being given a new lease of life.

Massively easier than the Crash Bandicoot Trilogy, each game builds upon the previous with new mechanics, finer level design and more collectibles than you can imagine.

Those with a 4K TV will also love the use of Auto HDR from the Xbox Series X, which makes each frame absolute ooze with detail.

Psychonauts

With the sequel making its way to the Xbox family next year, there’s never been a better time to dive into the weird and wonderful original version of Psychonauts, which is available via backwards compatibility.

Even now its unique art style makes it an absolutely charming experience, blending classic platformer influences with an essence of Tim Burton. Not only that, but it’s emotionally charged story is an absolute treat. Check it out ahead of the sequel.

Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time

It’s unfortunate that Crash Bandicoot 4 was met with poor sales, as the game is actually a phenomenal step up for the original trilogy. Building on every facet possible, the pitch perfect controls, vibrant worlds and fantastic level design come together in one lengthy package.

With an array of mirrored levels, gauntlets designed for genre veterans and a plethora of unlocks led, it’s the gift that keeps on giving and one that deserves more attention.

Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy

It’s no surprise that the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy is difficult, brutally difficult intact. Yet, there’s something compelling about its loop that keeps you coming back for more. Containing the original three games, the whole package is here before, with a brand new coat of paint.

While it doesn’t bring anything entirely new to the table, it manages to capture the sense of nostalgia whilst also feeling modernized. It would only be later another game would build upon it…

Just got an Xbox Series X for Christmas? No doubt you're looking for some sweet new games to play on your new console. 

One genre that's stuck with gaming since the beginning is platforming and the genre resurgence over the past few years and the Xbox brand is home to many iconic heroes, some of which are exclusive to the system.

From fast paced 2D platformers to open-world 3D platformers with worlds begging to be explored, each of these games manages to balance something new and old to create a truly special experience. 

So without further ado, check out this list of 15 platformers available on the Xbox Series X. Most are Xbox One titles, but some Xbox 360 and even Xbox titles made the list.

Rayman Legends

Last, but not least, we have Ubisoft's platforming mascot, Rayman. Rayman hasn't gotten a new mainline game in nearly 10 years, so sometimes this platforming great isn't as talked about as others.

That shouldn't be the case, because Rayman Legends knocked it out of the park. It's a vibrant, joyful, and creative platformer that'll have you on the edge of your seat more than once throughout its relatively short runtime.

The game also features some of the best couch co-op platforming that you can find on the PS4, so don't miss out if you're a fan of the genre.

As you can see, there are more than enough top-notch PS4 platformers that should be played on PS5. And we can't wait to see even more games get added to the PS5's library in the years to come.

Are there any platformers that you'd like to see added to the list? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!

Sonic Mania Plus

Sonic the Hedgehog is a household name at this point. With Sonic Mania, SEGA and developer Headcannon brought the series back to the 2D platformer roots that made it so popular.

The "Plus" version adds DLC, allowing players can speed through levels as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Mighty, or Ray. It also features new zones, updated classic stages, and a four-player multiplayer option.

This game is a must-play for any and all Sonic fans, and it's also a great entry point for anyone curious to see what the blue hedgehog is all about.

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove

Shovel Knight started out as a Kickstarter campaign that slowly became more and more successful. Developer Yacht Club Games has managed to deliver on everything promised and more.

This is another platformer that successfully captures the magic of retro games in the genre while still adding enough present-day flair to stand out on its own merit. Arming the player with a simple shovel and a few movement options seems odd at first, but you'll grow to love it in no time at all.

The Treasure Trove edition contains all four DLC campaigns, as well as a multiplayer Battle Mode and co-op for the main campaign. This is a platforming experience that absolutely shouldn't be missed out on.

The Messenger

The Messenger is a love letter to old-school Ninja Gaiden fans with its retro sounds/soundtrack, visuals, and overall feel. It even has an unexpected amount of humor, which is just a bonus, since it's already excelling in other aspects.

You assume the role of a ninja who must deliver a scroll to save his clan after his village has been attacked by a demon army. You'll be jumping, swinging, slashing, and warping between 8-bit and 16-bit worlds on this journey.

The level of nostalgia here is simply unmatched. The Messenger really does have everything that you could ask for as a fan of old school platformers.

Spelunky/Spelunky 2

Spelunky is a platformer with an endlessly fun roguelike gameplay loop. The first game launched on consoles back in 2012, and Spelunky 2 was just released in September for PS4.

The sequel piles on the exploration as players are tasked with avoiding traps while searching for treasures and missing family members on the moon. Each run can reveal new items, NPCs, and paths through the game. As you venture deeper, your home base will grow, leaving you more prepared to make those deep runs into the unknown.

This treasure hunt can be completed alone or with friends online, so there's plenty of randomized platforming to go around.

INSIDE

INSIDE is another entry on this list that's able to mix genres effortlessly. It's a relatively short narratively driven puzzle-platformer that'll keep you gripped through your entire playtime.

Those who played Playdead's previous platformer, LIMBO, will no-doubt love INSIDE just as much, if not more. It takes what made its predecessor great, and improves upon that already winning formula.

You're once again playing as a young boy, but this time, you seem to be heading towards the main cause of the danger around you.

The dark atmosphere, mysterious plot, and creative obstacles will be sure to leave you wanting more by the time the experience comes to a close.

Hollow Knight: Voidheart Edition

For most players, the first genre that comes to mind when thinking of Hollow Knight is probably Metroidvania. That said, there's still plenty of challenging platforming to overcome here.

It isn't easy, but if you can master the movement, timing, and control needed to traverse Hollow Knight's world, you'll find that it contains some of the best platforming experiences that the genre has to offer. You'll be finding secrets, tackling tough bosses, and enjoying that sweet satisfaction of improvement as you progress.

The Voidheart Edition is essentially the console version that contains all of the content added to the PC version of the game before it came to consoles. It was free on PlayStation Plus back in November but is $14.99 otherwise. 

Ratchet & Clank

Like Crash Bandicoot, Ratchet & Clank is also a classic platformer. The difference here is that it's fully 3D and a lot more action-oriented, containing some of the most oddly unique weapons found in any game in the genre.

It's also technically a game based on a movie, based on a game. That sounds confusing, but trust me, it makes sense.

The Ratchet & Clank movie was coming out around the same time as the game, and this soft reboot is a retelling of the very first game. This means that all newcomers to the longstanding franchise are welcome to give this one a shot.

You'll get to see how Ratchet and Clank start out, going from humble beginnings to intergalactic heroes.

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time

This classic platforming franchise made its return to relevance in 2017 with the N. Sane Trilogy, and as it turns out, Crash and Coco have a lot more to give to the genre beyond the original trilogy and a few spin-offs.

Crash 4 manages to bring back the feel of the original games while adding plenty of twists to keep things feeling fresh.

This time around, there are five playable characters and new masks that provide special powers to shake up the platforming. This is one that both newcomers and series veterans should check out.

Celeste

While all of the entries on this list are undoubtedly worth playing, Celeste can be considered one of the best platformers of the generation. It won both the Games for Impact and Best Indie Game awards at The Game Awards in 2018, and for good reason.

The game has tight, responsive controls, a fantastic soundtrack, and a plot that can be relatable to so many of its players.

Celeste is able to meaningfully tackle the topics of anxiety and mental illness while still making sure that its platforming stays enjoyable throughout the entire experience. It truly is one of the best in the genre.

The PlayStation 5 has finally arrived, but there aren't a ton of brand-new launch games to pick from. That's doubly true if you're a fan of platformers. Sure, Sackboy: A Big Adventure released alongside Sony's new console, and it is a fantastic game by our account, but overall, genre choices are currently thin on the PS5.  

The good news is that plenty of PS4 titles are available to play on PS5 through backwards compatibility, including plenty of must-play platformers.

It's not too late to look back and find a few games that you may have missed — or may be hiding in your backlog. Here are some of the best PS4 platformers that you should definitely play on PS5, as we wait for games like Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart and Balan Wonderworld. 

Ubisoft is doing its part to encourage self-isolation by offering free games and a number of free trials throughout the month of April. First up is the excellent platformer Rayman Legends. If you haven't yet played it, now's your best chance.

Rayman Legends

You can download Rayman Legends for PC through Ubisoft's website now until April 3 at 9:00 a.m. in your time zone. We gave it high praise back when it first launched in 2013, calling it the best platformer of the generation. It's zany, colorful, full of clever stage designs — especially the much-lauded music levels — and is packed full of secrets and things to find.

Ubisoft Free Trials

Ubisoft is offering a number of free trials all month as well. These include trials for games like Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Breakpoint and Trials Rising, and there's even a trial for Rabbids Coding if you fancy a coding lesson with Ubisoft's insane mutants.

And there's more to come. Ubisoft promises additional free offers and trials for games in series like Assassin's Creed and Just Dance. We'll keep you updated as Ubisoft posts more.

All this is great news, considering most of last month's free games aren't free anymore or soon won't be.

You can see the full announcement over on Ubisoft's website. If you're desperate for something to do and are willing to pay for it, we've got you covered there as well:

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The decade is coming to a close, and while there was controversy — and a few franchises flopped — the last 10 years provided some of the best moments in the history of gaming.

If you lived through the 2010s, you witnessed new, powerful console launches, new developers knocking it out of the park, and new, exciting tech releases from the ill-fated Kinect to the still burgeoning VR field.

All of that and more led to an unforgettable 10 years in gaming that rivaled much of what came before. Don't believe me? Let's take a look back at the industry's defining achievements over the past 10 years.  

The Early 2010s

Certain moments will live forever. Lady Gaga's meat outfit. Rebecca Black's Friday. Kony 2012. The color of that stupid dress. Marriage equality. "But her emails." Leo finally getting that damn Oscar. 

For me, the decade began in earnest when I put GLaDOS into a potato in Portal 2. The combination of humor and disturbing horror sold it as much as the game's top-notch voice acting and rock solid gameplay. That overall package had me sitting in awe, thinking: "Did modern video games just become amazing right this second?" 

Aside from the hilarious legacy of Portal's sequel (which itself will never be a follow-up since Valve sadly can't count to three), the 2010s kicked off in earnest with notable returns from major series featuring big changes. Mass Effect 2 ditched the extraneous RPG elements and somehow came out better for it; Dead Space 2 ramped up the horror and gore of the first game; and, of course, Starcraft 2: Wings Of Liberty arrived with a makeover and revamped multiplayer.

The early 2010s proudly brought the gaming universe a re-tooled horde mode in Gears of War 3, and it's one that stood the test of time. Aside from still holding the title of "one of the least toxic cooperative multiplayer modes" ever made, horde in Gears of War 3 remains the gold standard of multiplayer. Horde is one of the primary reasons why fans return to the Gears series even after the IP switched developers.

While those big-name AAA franchises made their marks, Minecraft became a phenomenon. Mojang's smash hit created an enduring legacy that can't be denied, even if the survival/open-world LEGO mashup has been endlessly emulated. Somehow the pop phenomenon still has hundreds of millions of active players, showing Mojang's vision wasn't just a fluke. 

Between an insane number of skins, seeds, maps, and mods, Minecraft has to be one of the most expansive gaming experiences of all time, and it will probably still be up and running long after we are all dead and gone. As we move into the next decade, we're preparing for Minecraft Dungeons, which could possibly be a game we'll still be talking about in 10 years. Who knows?

      OK, maybe it wouldn't have been the worst
thing if we didn't know about this guy...

Another low-key title that had a bigger impact than many realize — though not Minecraft big — came in the horror genre. 

Amnesia: The Dark Descent kicked off the "defenseless" horror subgenre that has seen the likes of Outlast, Layers of Fear, and Alien: Isolation follow in its footsteps. Although the Amnesia series is now quaint when compared to what came after it, it brought the horror genre to the masses. Why? Because big-name streamers loved it.

Reaction videos to Amnesia's scarier scenes caught on like wildfire, and it's partly to thank for the sudden spike in video game streaming personalities in the early part of the decade. Without Amnesia, it's possible that the likes of PewDiePie and Markiplier might remain relatively unknown.

       It is an absolute tragedy that this didn't catch on.

Despite all of the unexpected successes, there were some "sure things" that ended up nosediving in the early part of the decade. Nintendo — normally a pillar of stability — saw the Wii U ultimately flop, even though the hardware itself had some fantastic applications.

If you haven't experienced Rayman Legends local multiplayer using both the Wii U pad and your television screen, then you missed out on a critical piece of amazing gaming history.

While the Wii U has been consigned to the dust bin, other parts of the early 2010 gaming landscape caught on like wildfire and still haven't gone out.

Though I point blank hated Skyrim, credit must be given where it's due. Bethesda captured the imagination of a generation with that particular Elder Scrolls entry, and Skyrim managed to remain popular enough to see re-release some dozen or so times across multiple consoles throughout the decade.

Without question, Skyrim played a large role in the success of the 2010 console cycle, but it had an even bigger impact on the PC landscape. Simply put, Skyrim is the king of mods, and has born an entire generation of modders that have created some truly fantastic experiences. 

To date, Skyrim has more than 56,000 downloads available on Nexus Mods. Yeah, a lot of them are nude mods, but between the total conversion mods and extremely clever gameplay tweaks, Skyrim can be an amazing game with the right modding.

The mod effect went well past Bethesda's fantasy baby this decade. Other open world games like Red Dead Redemption 2 are getting a slew of mods, but everything from XCOM to the Resident Evil 2 remake are finding extra play time through some pretty genius mods.

While story took a back seat to open-world exploration in Skyrim, storytelling as a whole wasn't left in the dust in this early period of the decade. Plenty of games weren't afraid to go with more mature or unexpected themes, from the devastating opening of The Last Of Us to the mind-bending twist in Bioshock Infinite. 

Story rich or story lacking, open world or linear, the early part of the 10s was drowning in genre-defining games... but things would take a turn just a few years later. 

The Mid 2010s

         Telltale looking at Telltale and getting ready to pull the trigger       

Has a developer ever risen so quickly and then fallen so far as Telltale? The Wolf Among Us and the first season of The Walking Dead are still hallmarks of interactive storytelling, but sadly, the development team, under immense pressure, faced insurmountable hurdles.

A badly aging engine, lack of new ideas, and overspending on major franchises weighed the dev down by the time Game Of Thrones Season 1 ended. Sadly, things did not improve, and the company shuttered later in the decade. We never got to see the heights this style could have reached if material like Stranger Things, Hellraiser, or True Detective had been made available.

While the Telltale name is currently clawing back from the dead, it appears this new version of the company won't feature the same people (which may be a good thing) and will work on a much smaller scale. Will we ever get anything as compelling as Bigby's murder mystery or Clementine's journey to adulthood? Probably not, but at least we've still got our memories. 

       Goodbye old friend. You will be missed.

Another amazingly bittersweet moment arrived in April 2016 as the beloved Xbox 360 finally met its end. While Games With Gold is still offering up free titles each month and a handful of games are still hitting the platform, production on this console legend officially stopped. If you've still got a 360, be sure to keep hold of it -- because no more are being made! Microsoft managed to bring out the longest-running console cycle in gaming history, lasting more than 10 solid years. 

The next-gen got off to a rocky start not long before the 360 ceased production (remember the horror that was Assassin's Creed Unity?) but the decade's trend of disappointing trilogy conclusions with Dead Space 3 and Mass Effect 3 would come to a shattering and conclusive close with The Witcher 3.

Without question, The Witcher 3 put CD Projekt Red on the map and showed that an open-world RPG could be story-rich and offer more than just endless fetch quests and following map markers. Even more impressively, The Witcher 3 remains one of the very few titles to feature DLC that is easily as strong as the base game.

Considering the many amazing ladies of the series (oh, and Geralt too, I guess) just made the leap to a Netflix Original Series, it seems The Witcher franchise is going to live on for quite some time.

The same time period didn't just see the arrival of some truly great games — it also saw a change in how games are developed and the ways in which developers interact with players.

Although the method had been around for some time, it was around the mid-2010s that Early Access started to become a vehicle for on-going development. 

Though Early Access has seen its fair share of hate and has been legitimately abused, it gave us titles as diverse and satisfying as Darkest Dungeon, Slime Rancher, and later, Subnautica. Early Access has shown that supporting developers along the way and allowing tweaks to be made from fan feedback can result in better-finished products.

      Should have called it Baldur's Wind Dale: Temple Of Elemental Torment.

Rising alongside Early Access, the crowd-funding revolution also emerged in the 2010s, giving us an amazing crop of old-school RPGs like Pillars of Eternity and Wasteland 2. 

Fans wanted classic isometric games utilizing tactical real-time-with-pause or turn-based combat, but publishers just weren't willing to take the risk. They couldn't see that nostalgia equals money. Kickstarter and Indiegogo stepped in.

While Obsidian and InXile got snapped up by Microsoft in 2018 — and it would seem are now cranking out some very off-brand console titles — we still had a good number of years where fans had the final say on what would get released in those instances.

Kickstarter would later grow to feature revitalized classics such as Shenmue 3 and the Castlevania-adjacent Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night. Whether you asked for a refund and still think its a scam or are eagerly playing along, Star Citizen showed just how massive a crowd funding campaign can become. Somehow its still earning crowd funding revenue, having raked in more than $250 million from fans who know what they want and are willing to pay to get it.

Outside the realm of the typical gaming sphere, a surprising new genre would emerge and make a bigger impact than anyone suspected: absurdist games meant entirely for Let's Plays, reaction vids, and water-cooler talk.

"Classics" like Goat Simulator and Octodad: Dadliest Catch saw gamers re-thinking what truly makes a game great, while also laying the foundation for newer entries like Untitled Goose Game.

The Late 2010s

      Welcome back, Nintendo!

Breath Of The Wild was exactly what Nintendo needed to retake its position near the head of the pack. A major shift in gameplay towards an open-world style gave the Zelda franchise and the Switch a serious shot in the arm.

A brand new design for Nintendo's latest console didn't hurt either, as the combination of permanent home base console and mobile device re-captured the imaginations of gamers. While the controller and movement-based games like 1-2 Switch don't seem to have caught on, Nintendo is still very clearly back into position as console innovator. 

Another open-world game that defined this same period, but on the PlayStation 4, was Horizon Zero Dawn. The combination of old and new styles with a gripping mystery of humanity's past pushed forward by a fiery main character gave many players a reason to stick with the PS4. 

Considering the lauded Red Dead Redemption came out in 2010 and Red Dead Redemption 2 was one of the most highly anticipated titles of 2018, it's clear that the open-world trend has reigned supreme this decade.

One game refutes that claim, though, is Fortnite.

You might love to hate it, but you have to ask yourself: has any other title done more to bring gaming into the public consciousness? When Star Wars and Avengers hold in-game events in Fortnite, I think it's clear we've surpassed fandom boundaries and hit the big time.

The concept of Battle Royale has been around for quite awhile, and one could argue it hit its stride with PUBG not long after getting popular through the DayZ mod to Arma 2. That being said, it wasn't until Fortnite that the term became a household name and a genre giant in its own right. 

The resurgence of Battle Royale aside, Fortnite still plays a major role in live streaming, catapulting it to a previously unknown level of popularity with celebrity appearances and major eSports events. Fortnite managed to hit just about every platform imaginable, including mobile phones, and that's another area of gaming worth looking at that made a huge splash in the '10s.

      Not only is this peak 2010s, I'd argue it was also the
reason the internet was invented

Forget Angry Birds and Candy Crush, because there was an absolute explosion of mobile gaming covering every conceivable genre this decade. Aside from the clear cultural significance, Pokemon Go's launch started the AR craze meant to get gamers off the couch and out into the world of sunlight and exercise.

Even if you didn't care for the change in mechanics from the other monster-collecting titles, Pokemon Go was the gift that just kept on giving, from Pokemoan dildos (yep, they exist) to a Chuck Tingle erotica book, to a news cycle that kept bringing up new insanity every, single day.

While some games got smaller and more mobile, others got larger and more tethered — VR broke into the mainstream. The PSVR brought true virtual reality to console gamers for a (sort of) affordable price for the first time.

Meanwhile, a number of dueling PC VR platforms are now pushing the boundaries and getting the tech where it needs to go. Vive and Oculus are currently duking it out, with the Oculus Quest now ditching wires and even the PC entirely for a more liberated experience. We haven't seen the best VR has to offer yet — that's for sure — but what's available today is already impressive.

If virtual worlds are less important to you than the interactions that occur within them, the late 2010s were a time when communities really started coming together through platforms like Twitch and Discord.

While the former popped up in 2011 and the latter in 2015, it hasn't been until recent years that they've really come into their own. Whether a mobile gacha title or a graphics-intensive PC shooter, pretty much every game worth playing has its own Discord community where players help each other out and forge new relationships.

New consoles, new tech, new ways of communicating, and new and returning franchises made this is a decade to remember in gaming history.

Looking Forward to 2020 and Beyond

That all about brings us to the present: 2019 was filled to the brim with major gaming news. Bungie parted with Activision but kept the Destiny series; Blizzard stepped in it with their poor handling of eSports players discussing Chinese democracy protests; and Xbox Game Studios snapped up Double Fine back in August.

On the release front, the tail end of the decade hasn't slouched with top-notch new games in a number of surprising genres. Disco Elysium came out of nowhere, and yeah, it deserves the hype. If you miss Planescape: Torment style text-heavy experiences, you want to play this one. The movie snippet experimentation with Telling Lies is also well worth experiencing and shows gaming can be just as interesting and story-rich as cinema. That's not to mention Netflix's Bandersnatch.

As the year ends, we're seeing more changes to the gaming landscape with monthly game services like Game Pass, PS Now, EA Access, and more coming into prominence. Even the mobile gaming crowd is getting in on the monthly subscription action with Apple Arcade and Google Play Pass. If you want to try out a bunch of games for a low monthly price, there's never been a better time to explore what's available on console, PC, or mobile devices.

Of course, the obvious next step of this digital revolution was the advent of the all-streaming Stadia and XCloud. The effect of those changes is still anyone's guess, but it sure looks like we're barreling towards a digital future with a Netflix style library of games.

As Google and all-streaming services come into the spotlight, the console wars still raged between Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo. The PS4 managed to become the fourth best selling console of all time this gen, and some killer exclusives likely played a big role there. How the PS5 and Xbox Series X stack up against each other still remains to be seen.

Far more happened in this decade than we ever could have covered in one article, and I'm sure you'll be happy to tell me which games and events I missed that made this the best 10 years in gaming history.

For now, it's time to look toward the future, as next-gen consoles are well into development and are expected to arrive next holiday season. Major titles like Cyberpunk 2077, Baldur's Gate 3, and The Last Of Us 2 are mere months away, and we can't wait to see what the next 10 years have in store! 

What were your favorite video game moments from 2010-2019, and do you agree that it was the best decade in gaming history? Sound off in the comments below!

That just about does it for the Top 10 Xbox One games for kids ages 7-12.

There are plenty of offerings on the Xbox One for younger audiences, and there's something on this list for every kid to enjoy.

If you or your child has an Xbox One, check out these games if you're looking for a fun new experience.

If you have a favorite Xbox One game for younger gamers, let us know in the comments! 

Rayman Legends

Rating: Everyone 10+
Price: $39.99
Where to Buy: Amazon

Rayman Legends follows the titular Rayman and his friends as they journey through a variety of magical paintings that each contain their own world. Inside that, each world contains tons of levels in which kids can jump, build, and punch through levels, taking out enemies and saving creatures known as Teensies along the way.

The goal is to beat the levels and discover all of their secrets. Each of the levels is beautifully rendered and the music is fun and upbeat, making this seem like a fully fleshed-out world for kids to explore.

The game received the highest Metacritic score of any game on this list and is considered a must-play for both kids and adults.

Check out our Rayman Legends review for more info. 

Kung Fu Panda: Showdown of Legendary Legends

Rating: Everyone 10+
Price: $29.87
Where to Buy: Amazon

If your kids are big Kung Fu Panda fans, here's the game for you! This fighting game allows kids to pick from any number of characters from the Kung Fu Panda universe and do battle with friends or computer-controlled characters. 

This game includes local co-op, meaning two players can play against each other on one console. Battles take place on a variety of stages from the series' universe. 

The violence is cartoony and similar to what one would find in the movies. This is a great choice for kids who enjoy Super Smash Bros. and are looking for something similar.

Snoopy's Grand Adventure

Rating: Everyone
Price: $25.00
Where to Buy: Amazon

Intended as a spin-off and continuation of The Peanuts Movie, this game involves one big game of hide and seek.

In Snoopy's Grand Adventure, kids play as Snoopy, who is looking to find the rest of the Peanuts gang as they travel throughout imaginary worlds.

Those who loved Peanuts will definitely appreciate the game, as the worlds are based on the sequences of Snoopy's imagination, which were some of the most famous parts of the old Peanuts movies.

Kids can jump, climb, and scoot around obstacles in levels contained within four different worlds as they try to find all of the Peanuts friends.

Super Lucky's Tale

Rating: Everyone
Price: $19.89
Where to Buy: Amazon

Super Lucky's Tale is a 3D platformer, a genre that also includes the Mario games. Kids play as Lucky, a fox who travels through different levels in a quest to protect a magical tome known as the Book of Ages.

The game is fairly easy, allowing young kids to run, jump, and bounce their way through colorful worlds while collecting clovers.

In addition to the main levels, the game includes a number of side challenges, puzzles, and other minigames to keep kids occupied.

Along the way, they'll meet lots of storybook-style characters and outsmart evil cats. This is essentially the tamer version of Crash Bandicoot -- if there is such a thing. 

Disneyland Adventures

Rating: Everyone 10+
Price: $29.99
Where to Buy: Amazon

For kids who love their Kinect, this is a fun way to explore Disney’s park from your Xbox One. Disneyland Adventures allows kids to explore 18 of Disneyland's attractions, meet and get autographs from characters, and participate in magical adventures like flying with Peter Pan.

There are lots of minigames that young kids will enjoy, and players of all ages can try fun things like coordinating their own fireworks show over Sleeping Beauty's castle.

Kids can explore at their own pace, and there are few timers or requirements. Even if you don’t have a Kinect, you can still enjoy the game, though some of the minigames are a little harder to play without motion controls.

Minecraft Story Mode: The Complete Adventure

Rating: Everyone 10+
Price: $19.99
Where to Buy: Amazon

If your child still can’t get enough of Minecraft, Minecraft Story Mode is a good choice.

The single-player game follows the story of several characters within the Minecraft universe. Kids can choose what their character says and does, which will then influence how the story plays out.

There are also brief sequences in which kids can explore and solve puzzles, often involving finding objects in an environment.

Though it doesn’t contain the building and crafting elements of the original and the story may seem a little mundane to adults, this is a great option for kids who enjoy other Minecraft spin-off books and stories.

Think choose-your-own-adventure here.

You can check out our review of Minecraft Stories' first episode for more info. 

Rush: A Disney-Pixar Adventure

Rating: Everyone 10+
Price: $29.99
Where to Buy: Amazon

A wealth of familiar characters means there’s a lot to enjoy here for kids who love Pixar. Rush: A Disney-Pixar Adventure features characters and worlds from six well-known Pixar franchises ranging from Cars to Toy Story and Finding Nemo. 

Kids can interact with their favorite characters and solve puzzles and challenges in each of the movies' worlds; they can also explore the worlds on their own, finding secrets and experiencing what it's like to be in a Pixar movie.

The game supports local co-op, meaning two players can play on one console at the same time, making this a great choice for kids with siblings, but only one Xbox One. 

Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy

Rating: Everyone 10+
Price: $43.10
Where to Buy: Amazon

If you grew up playing Crash Bandicoot, this Xbox One remake is a great way to introduce the kids in your life to a classic. Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy collects the first three titles of the Crash Bandicoot series, which originally appeared on the first PlayStation.

Each sees the titular Crash travels through lots of different levels to stop the evil Doctor Neo Cortex from taking over the world. Kids can blast through enemies, collect power-ups and points, and compete to see who can clear a level the fastest.

The game is an extremely faithful reproduction and even provides a few updates to the original games, so if you enjoyed those, there's a lot to like here. 

Check out our N. Sane Trilogy review for more info. 

LEGO Worlds

Rating: Everyone 10+
Price: $32.99
Where to Buy: Amazon

If your kids are tired of Minecraft but looking for something in a similar vein, LEGO Worlds might be the next logical choice. 

LEGO Worlds lets kids create their own LEGOego-style avatar and construct their own world brick by brick, just as they would with a regular LEGO set. Kids can also play with their friends in their own worlds via online play.

After building a world, players can race in cars or ride fantastic creatures, populate their world with different characters, or look for buried treasure.

While it doesn’t quite reach the lofty heights of Mojang’s masterpiece, there are plenty of opportunities for creative kids to plan, build, and create anything they can think of right on their Xbox One. 

Check out our LEGO Worlds review for more info. 

Just Dance 2019

Rated: Everyone
Price: $49.90
Where to Buy: Amazon

Just like the previous games in the series, Just Dance 2019 includes a huge list of chart-topping songs that the kids in your life probably know better than you do.

The game uses the Xbox One's camera capabilities to capture all your righteous dance moves for glorious in-game points. The closer you are to the suggested pose and the more in time you are, the higher your score climbs.

At the end of the song, whoever has the most points wins.

Up to four players can play at the same time, making this a great game for a party or event. The game uses the radio versions of the songs, meaning that most inappropriate words are censored. Just Dance 2019 comes out on October 23, just in time to make every kid's holiday wish lists. 

There’s little doubt that the Xbox One is a great place to come for a variety of games. Whether you’re looking for a huge open-world adventure or mature storytelling, the Xbox One games library has something for everyone.

But what if you’re looking for a game your kids can enjoy?

Nintendo is often associated with games for kids, but the Big M has plenty of offerings for younger players. From a vast catalog of LEGO games to Rayman, Snoopy, and Crash Bandicoot, the Xbox One's library of kid-friendly games is no slouch. 

As we head into the holiday season, you're sure to be on the lookout for games your kids can play during the Thanksgiving break or on Christmas. If that's what you're here for, keep clicking to see our roundup of the 10 best Xbox One games for kids ages 7-12.

If you have kids and a PS4, then one of the two scenarios is likely happening in your home:

Scenario 1: You own the PS4. Your kid(s) want to play games with you, and you sure aren't letting them play Grand Theft Auto V. If your kids are young enough, then perhaps you just hand them an unplugged controller so they feel like they're playing.

Scenario 2: Your kid(s) own the PS4. They're playing all sorts of games and having a great time, but not anything you really like. You're wondering if there's anything you and your kids can play together and have a bit of bonding time.

No matter which scenario is most applicable to you, there are certainly some awesome, family-friendly co-op PS4 games out there. The following seven titles are sure to create a fun, memorable experience playing video games together with your kids.

Rayman Legends

Rayman Legends is a platformer in which up to four players make their way through many, many levels -- 120 levels, to be exact. In the game, Rayman has awoken from a 100-year nap, and the world is in trouble. He and his friends Murfy and Globox must come together and save the world from the nasty nightmares. No matter the age of your kids, Rayman Legends is pure entertainment for the whole family.

Buy Rayman Legends now from Amazon: $20.88

LEGO Marvel Superheroes 2

Taking you and your friends on a brick-smashing romp through the Marvel cinematic universe, LEGO Marvel Superheroes 2 gives you control of Thor, Gamora, Spiderman, Ironman, and myriad other Marvel characters in a quest to save the world from evil domination. The game requires tons of teamwork and strategy, but never loses sight of the whimsical fun that makes Marvel, well, Marvel. 

New updates to this installment of the franchise give you more customization options, more puzzles, and more characters to play with. But at the end of the day, the gameplay is the same LEGO gameplay you've come to love over the years. It's one of the most engrossing couch co-op games of the year -- in true LEGO form. 

Buy LEGO Marvel Superheroes 2 from Amazon: $39.99

Guacamelee!

Guacamelee! is a beautiful Metroidvania-style brawler/platformer inspired by Mexican culture and folklore. The main character is Juan, who is killed trying to rescue El Presidente's daughter. While in the land of the dead, Juan finds a mask that gives him superpowers and allows him to transcend both worlds. Up to four people can play, but the introduction of the game needs to be completed solo before everyone can join in.

Buy Guacamelee! now from the PlayStation Store: $14.99

Minecraft

Minecraft can be a co-op game in two ways. One, where each player has a controller and you utilize the split-screen mode. Or two, where one person is on screen building things and the other is more of a designer or architect behind the on-screen creations. Of course, there's the not-so-secret third way, which is where everyone just takes turns trolling each other. Nonetheless, Minecraft is a wonderful co-op game if you're looking for a title that is less about defeating enemies and more about building the world you want to be in.

Buy Minecraft now from Amazon: $19.99

Trine 3: The Artifacts of Power

Trine 3: The Artifacts of Power is a gorgeous 3D platformer filled with everything anyone could want in a platformer: puzzles, action, mystique, and a compelling story. Players choose from Pontius the Knight, Zoya the Thief, and Amadeus the Wizard, who each have unique skills and abilities. Unlike the other games on this list, the co-op is only for up to three players. 

Buy Trine 3: The Artifacts of Power now from the PlayStation Store: $21.99

Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2

Who doesn't love the zombies in Plants vs. Zombies? Hopefully not your kids. Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 is very similar to the first game in terms of gameplay, but the sequel adds new plant classes, new zombie classes, and new game modes. In this game, the plants are on the offensive for the first time, fighting to reclaim Zomburbia from the zombies. Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 also introduces the Backyard Battleground, a hub world in which players can explore, find missions, collect things, plant pots, and do other fun things.

Buy Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 now from Amazon: $19.49

Gauntlet: Slayer Edition

Gauntlet: Slayer Edition is for one to four players and a good game for players, say, age 10 and up. It's similar to Gauntlet Legends for N64, where it's a hack-and-slash dungeon crawler in which players can choose to be a wizard, valkyrie, elf, or warrior. Each role has different abilities, but only one player is allowed per role. The game doesn't have the most varied levels or gameplay, which makes it good for younger or less experienced gamers.

Buy Gauntlet: Slayer Edition now from Amazon: $19.99

Overcooked

If you want to encourage your kids to cook more often but aren't sure how to get them interested, then Overcooked may be a good place to start. This cooking simulator for up to four players involves preparing a wide variety of dishes in crazy kitchens under crazier circumstances. For example, your kitchen could be split between two trucks traveling at varying speeds, or just simply on fire. If cooperation just isn't your family's thing, then there is a competitive multiplayer mode as well.

Buy Overcooked now from Amazon: $19.99

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With the holidays coming up, there's still plenty of time to do the shopping and pick up a title or two off this list. Hopefully this year, it won't be just you or your kids spending time by themselves playing the cool new video games but instead everyone gathered around the console together to celebrate the festive season.

Since its release in March, dozens of games have already been released on Nintendo's newest console. Some of those on the Switch are brand new games, while others are re-releases and ports. And while there are some games that are geared more toward teens and adults, there are still some great games that children of all ages can play.

This list will cover five of the best games for children on the Nintendo Switch. Of course, all of these games can be played anyone at any age, not just children. But these games are those that you'll definitely be able to pick up for your kids this holiday season. 

Let's dive in. 

5. 1-2-Switch

1-2-Switch is a great game to buy a child if you want them to spend time with the family. And although it is a multiplayer-only game, that means everyone in the family can (and probably should) play together. There are tons of mini-games to choose from, each one different from the last. These mini-games make use of certain features of the Switch controllers, such as the Joycons' improved rumble feature. It can also be fun to watch other people

Each mini-game makes use of certain features of the Switch controllers, such as the Joycons' improved rumble feature, motion control, and more. 1-2-Switch has everything from Quickdraw (family-friendly) Wild West shootouts and Samurai Training to Table Tennis, Boxing, Dance Off, and much more.  

You can buy 1-2-Switch on Amazon for $49.99

4. Rayman Legends Definitive Edition

Rayman Legends: Definitive Edition is a Nintendo Switch remake of Raymon Legends. It is a fun platformer game where you play as one of four characters with different special moves. You guide these characters through various (zany) levels as they defeat enemies and rescue those in need. 

Each of these characters also has different outfits that you can unlock or purchase with in-game currency. The colors in the game work very well together, especially in regards to the different characters. And the sound design is impeccable.This is also a great game for multiple people since up to four people can play together.

Rayman Legends is also a great game for multiple people since up to four people can play together at the same time. This could very well be the perfect game to pick up for the entire family this holiday season. 

You can buy Rayman Legends: Definitive Edition on Amazon for $39.99. 

3. Lego Worlds

Lego Worlds is an open-world, Minecraft-style game solely made of Lego blocks. The player has the ability to change the world as they see fit. The player can create anything, including mountains and islands, and they can explore their world however they see fit, whether that be riding on the back of a dragon or riding around on a motorcycle. At the start of the game. they are an astronaut, but the farther they progress into the game, the more they can change their character. 

At the start of the game. they are an astronaut, but the farther they progress into the game, the more they can change their character. Needless to say, this is a kid- and family-friendly sandbox experience that will deliver hours and hours of entertainment. 

You can buy Lego Worlds on Amazon for $39.99.

2. Skylanders Imaginators

The Skylanders franchise has been around since 2011 -- and its popularity hasn't waned in all of those years, especially with kids. This specific variation allows for players to create their own Skylanders in-game, as long as they have the correct creation crystal for the type they want to make. 

So while it can be a bit pricey to get your child hooked on Skylanders, it's an investment that keeps giving back year after year. Activision provides massive support for the game and the figures double as toys -- so you're getting double the bang for your proverbial buck. 

You can buy the Skylanders Starter Pack on Amazon for $58.00. 

1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart is always a big hit with children. This specific version is a re-release of the version for Wii U. However, the Switch version of Mario Kart 8 comes with all of the DLC characters and races from the Wii U version. With a large variety of tracks on which to compete, and a plethora of characters to race as, this game is highly replayable. And di we mention up to four players can face off to see who's the king of the track? 

You can buy Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Amazon for $59.99. 

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While all of these games vary in type from each other, they are all great for children. And even better? The whole family can get in on the action, too! 

Are there any games you think should have been included in this list? Let us know in the comments.

The Wii U has been around for a while, but it still has fun and exciting games just waiting to be discovered and played. And since Nintendo has been releasing sequels -- or in some cases the same game -- on the Switch, it makes sense that people would want to buy it in order to keep the fun of their favorite games going. But since it's currently in short supply, Wii U games will have to tide some gamers over.

Which of these games are you going to play while waiting for your Nintendo Switch?

Rayman Legends

Rayman Legends is the fifth main title in the Rayman series and a direct sequel to the 2011's Rayman Origins. The plot follows the characters Rayman, Globox, and the Teensies after they've been sleeping for a century. When they are awakened, they find out that the ten princesses of the land and the Teensies have been captured by the nighmares and Dark Teensies. The goal of the game is to defeat the threats and rescue the princesses.

Up to four people can play at any given time, and it continues the platforming gameplay found in Rayman Origins.

What's more, RO features more than 120 levels, including 40 remastered levels from Rayman Origins, which means hours upon hours of gameplay. If nothing else can hold your attention, this game can.

And who knows? Maybe the next version will be released on the Switch!

Pikmin 3

Pikmin 3 is a weird game, but it's a great time-passer as we await Nintendo Switch stock to increase. The game takes place on the planet "PNF-404" where three Koppaite explorers (Alph, Brittany, and Charlie) have crash landed in their attempt to discover and retrieve much-needed food sources.

In Pikmin 3 , the player controls Pikmin and directs them to complete various tasks like building bridges, collecting spoils, and defeating enemies. Each Pikmin has a physical feature that signifies their special abilities (for instance, Red Pikmin are immune to fire. while blue Pikmin can swim in water without drowning).

While the content contains dark humor, it's definitely worth holding onto until you can switch to the Switch.

Bayonetta 2

Bayonetta 2 is an action-packed hack 'n' slasher, which came out in 2014 for the Wii U. The sequel to Bayonetta, the game takes place on the fictional, sacred mountain of Fimbulventr, with the player controlling Bayonetta as she fights against the forces of good and evil.

With access to over-the-top weapons, stylish attack moves, and the ability to stop time, Bayonetta 2 is definitely a game that can tide audiences over until they get their hands on the Switch.

Super Mario 3D World

This game, developed in 2013, is a platformer that people just adore. After all, Mario is everyone's favorite plumber. "Switchers" are also excited for the prospect of Super Mario 3D Odyssey cfall.

However, if you don't have access to the Switch and can't wait that long to get your Super Mario fix, Super Mario 3D World for the WiiU is gonna' be your next jam.

The game follows Mario and friends attempting to rescue fairy-ish creatures (called Sprixies) from the clutches of Bowser, who invades their realm. The gameplay is similar to that of Super Mario 3D Land, which combines the free-roaming gameplay of other 3D Mario games with the 2D side-scrolling aesthetic of classic Mario platformers.

With hidden items and tons of levels, you won't get bored with this one!

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

As one of the most anticipated games for the Nintendo Switch, it makes sense to play The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on the Wii U in lieu of owning a Switch.

BotW follows Link, who has awoken from a 100-year slumber to a voice guiding him to defeat Calamity Ganon before he can destroy the kingdom of Hyrule. It's different from its counterparts in that it has an open world environment, a detailed physics engine, high-definition visuals, and well-done voice acting.

In BotW, the player controls multiple rune powers, how to cook, and how to navigate the harsh lands around them. This game is worth playing because it continues the world building from previous Legend of Zelda games, while still being exciting for those who are just now traversing into the world of Zelda.

Ah, the law of supply and demand. It's the backbone of the market economy, and in theory, it's the symbiotic relationship between producer and buyer. But sometimes, supply doesn't quite equal demand. And this is the case for the Nintendo Switch. Everyone wants it, but not everyone can have it. 

Knowing that the release of the Nintendo Switch basically means the end of the Wii U, the Switch will be quite the commodity for some time -- and most likely in short supply for months to come. 

But don't fret if you can't get your hands on one just yet! There are still a ton of games that can bide your time until the Switch is available for everyone, especially if you own a WiiU. 

Here are the six that made it to the top of the list!

With the Nintendo Switch presentation exciting long-time fans and newcomers alike, it is only natural for developers to display their content for the upcoming system. And Ubisoft has currently announced 3 games coming to the Nintendo Switch: Just Dance 2017, Steep, and Rayman Legends Definitive Edition. 

Just Dance 2017 will be released at the Switch's launch, with the dance track "How Deep Is Your Love" by Calving Harris & Disciples being a Switch exclusive. Steep is an open-world extreme sports game in which you experience the fantasy of being a daredevil, taking great risks for a higher score. Rayman Legends Definitive Edition is a re-release of the critically acclaimed Rayman Legends. 

Ubisoft, in addition to these titles, has announced its continuing support of the Nintendo Switch. According to Xaviere Pox, Ubisoft's Managing Director of French Studios:

"We’re proud to be working closely with Nintendo on this new console, making sure players can enjoy great games on a device that shares the same philosophy these games: great accessibility and the ability to bring people together."

The Nintendo Switch will be coming to store shelves March 3rd at $299 a piece. Stay tuned for more Switch and Ubisoft News.

Splatoon

Platforms: Wii U

Price: $59.99

Buy it: Amazon

There is not another game out there quite like Splatoon. Players take on the role of inklings, being capable of changing form from humanoids to squids and back. It is a great game for both kids and parents alike as they battle each other, splattering the arena with paint guns or brushing it with paint rollers. It is a wonderful game that was created for one thing only, to have great fun.

Super Mario Maker

Platforms: Wii U and 3DS (Available on 3DS from December 2nd)

Price: $39.96-$59.99 (Varies by platform)

Buy it: Amazon

What better game to play with your kids than Super Mario Maker? Create levels and play millions of others from players across the world together. You can find anything from simple straight forward levels to the absolutely ridiculous. There is countless hours of fun to be had for the whole family.

Yoshi's Woolly World

Platforms: Wii U

Price: $34.90

Buy it: Amazon

Yoshi's Woolly World is an absolutely adorable game. The game takes place in a knitted island full of various yarn Yoshis'. It is a great platform game from the creators of the Mario games, and is sure to please both kids and parents alike.

Zoo Tycoon (2013)

Platforms: Xbox 360 and Xbox One

Prices: $18.97-$29.99 (Varies by platform) 

Buy it: Amazon

Here is your opportunity to create your own parents and kids zoo with Frontier Developments Zoo Tycoon. I definitely recommend getting the Xbox One version over the 360 if it is possible, as it contains more content. Either way, this is a great game to work together with your kids as you build your dream zoo.

Lego Marvel Super Heroes

Platforms: PC, Mac, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, PS4, PSVita, 3DS, DS, Wii U, iOS and Android

Prices: $15.89-$22.99 (Varies by platform)

Buy it: Steam (PC and Mac), Nintendo (3DS, DS and Wii U), PSN (PS3 and PS4) and Amazon (Xbox One and Xbox 360)

Everybody loves Lego and everybody loves Marvel. Combining the two together is always a guaranteed success. In Lego Marvel Super Heroes, you can play as your favourite Marvel characters, including Iron Man, Hulk, Captain America and Spider-Man. It is a game that both kids and parents alike are bound to enjoy.

Rayman Legends

Platforms: PC, PS3, PS4, PSVita, Wii U, Xbox 360 and Xbox One

Prices: $18.07-$29.99 (Varies by platform)

Buy it: Steam (PC) and Amazon (PS3, PS4, PSVita, Wii U, Xbox 360 and Xbox One)

The Rayman series has always been a favourite among platformer fans. Rayman Legends is easily one of the best of the titles in the entire series. With beautiful graphics, excellent level design and over 120 levels in total to play, it is a game that will keep the kids and parents alike occupied for hours.

Octodad Dadliest Catch

Platforms: Android, iOS, PC, Mac, Linux, PS4, PS Vita, Wii U and Xbox One

Prices: $4.99-$69.98 (Varies by platform)

Buy it: Steam (PC, Mac and Linux), Microsoft (Xbox One), Nintendo (Wii U), Amazon (PS4 and PS Vita), Google Play (Android) and iTunes (iOS).

Easily the craziest of the games on this list. Octodad Dadliest Catch is an adventure game where players take on the role of an octopus attempting to live under a human's identity. You must complete tasks and keep people from becoming suspicious of your strange behaviour.

It is a game that can be frustrating and may be difficult in places for younger gamers but the laughter everyone will get from it, is worth it.

Putty Squad Remake

Platforms:  PS4, PSVita, 3DS, and Xbox 360

Prices: $12.75-$29.99 (Varies by platform)

Buy it: Amazon (PS4, PS Vita and 3DS) Xbox Live Arcade (Xbox 360)

Putty Squad was originally a game set to release in 1994. It, however, never released. It eventually got remade and released in 2013 and became available on the platforms above. With it's wonderful and colourful cartoon graphics and comical character designs, it a game that kids are sure to love.

Mario Kart 8

Platforms: Wii U

Price: $48.33

Buy it: Amazon

There are few games out there that are as much fun as Mario Kart when playing with others. Get your family around the TV on those cold, rainy, winter days and play Mario Kart 8. You won't feel the hours go by as everyone enjoys themselves with this beautifully colourful and addicting game.

Little Big Planet 3

Platforms: PS3 and PS4

Price: $19.99

Buy it: Amazon

Little Big Planet 3 is a great puzzle-platformer. Not only does it get the kids to use their brains to get through each level but it allows them to get creative and make their own levels too. With the ability to play countless levels created by players from around the world, the fun never has to end.

Minecraft

Platforms: PC, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Windows Phone, Gear VR, Kindle Fire, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, PS4, PSVita and Wii U.

Prices: $26.99-$29.99 (Varies by platform)

Buy it: Minecraft (PC, Pac, Linux, Windows 10), Microsoft (Xbox 360, Xbox One and Windows Phone), PSN (PS3, PS4, PSVita), Nintendo (Wii U), iTunes (iOS), Google Play (Android), Amazon (Kindle Fire), Oculus (Gear Vr).

Not only is Minecraft one of the biggest games ever made, it is also one of the best games for kids. It is 100% child-friendly and it also encourages them to use their imagination to build anything that their imaginations can muster. If they don't already play it, Minecraft is sure to give you and your kids hours of fun.

In the modern age of video games, violence is the main theme of most titles that hit store shelves. In an industry that primarily focuses on games for a mature audience, it is getting tougher to find titles that are suitable for younger gamers -- especially games that you can spend time together enjoying as a family. 

Don't worry though. With this buyer's guide, you will find a selection of varying titles across many platforms that are family-friendly and lots of fun. Whether your kids play games on the Xbox, PlayStation, PC, 3DS, Wii U or Mobile Devices, there are titles here to suit everyone -- both parents and kids alike.

1. Rayman Legends

PS4, PS3, Vita, Xbox One, 360, Wii U, Windows

Let's just a take a moment to appreciate the fact that Ubisoft actually made a creatively smart decision. While Rayman has existed since the early PlayStation 1 days, the franchise didn't really gain a significant following until it was rebooted in Raving Rabbids. Yet, even there, Rayman was eventually kicked out from the series so the games would focus entirely on those annoying little white alien rabbit hybrids.

That all changed when Rayman got an official reboot that he himself starred in with Rayman Origins, a platforming masterpiece. However, if you want the best experience possible, you need to purchase Rayman Legends. Not only does it continue the hot streak of beautiful animation, fun level design, insanely funny multiplayer, and tricky boss battles, but it also has the majority of levels featured in Origins as a bonus! You know you're in for a wild ride when there's an entire level dedicated to rock and roll music that you get to jam out to.

Did we miss any of your favorite 3D collectathon platforming games? Be sure to let us know what you're top 5 favorite titles in the genre are. And finally, be sure to keep an eye out for the multi-platform collectathon Yooka-Laylee releasing early next year.

2. Ratchet and Clank Future: A Crack in Time

 PS3 

This series of games, starring one of the PlayStation's most iconic duos, has definitely set the bar high for 3D platforming titles. While the series did just get a new entry on the PlayStation 4, that tied with the painfully unfunny Ratchet and Clank film, A Crack in Time stands as the pinnacle of what a Ratchet and Clank game should be like. A great adventure across the galaxy awaits those who pop this into their trusty PlayStation 3.

Hilariously over the top weapons you can upgrade and purchase, tons and tons of bolts to collect, platforming and shooting segments, it's all here. And with added puzzle sections that tease your brain to actually think for a change, and a great story to match it all, A Crack in Time is easily one of the best entries in the franchise as a whole.  

3. Freedom Planet

 Wii U, Steam

Sometimes you don't have to be the most original game in the world to perfect a genre. Freedom Planet was created as an homage to the early days of Sonic the Hedgehog, and while the similarities are quite clear, the end results are hard to ignore.

Freedom Planet serves as a great example of the collectathon platformer done right on an indie developer level, all thanks to the high octane speeds, power ups and rewards. The best part is that you don't need to be PC gamer to enjoy it, as it is also available for purchase off the Nintendo e-Shop for the Wii U. And if you need more, a sequel was recently announced to come out soon!

4. Super Mario 3D World

Wii U

There certainly will never be a shortage of Mario games any time soon. From his space exploration adventures in Super Mario Galaxy, to fighting with his own friends in Mario Party, the dynamite character from Nintendo appears in a whirlwind of titles that have defined every single one of the consoles they appeared on. So it only seems fitting that one of the Wii U's best titles is another great Mario platforming game.

Combining many of the elements that made earlier games in the franchise a success, such as suit power ups and multiplayer modes, Super Mario 3D World stands tall as a title that defined Nintendo's short lived system. With a plethora of colorful worlds to explore, treasures to find, and enemies to defeat, any owner of the Wii U most definitely should have this in their collection.

5. Sonic Generations

PS3, 360

This little blue gaming icon may have fallen from its once proud days on the Sega Genesis, but that doesn't mean Sonic the Hedgehog can't still have some enjoyable adventures. For every Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric or Sonic and the Black Knight, there exists a Sonic Colors. But if you want the cream of the crop in modern day Sonic titles, look no further than Generations.

Combining two different campaign play styles, some levels designed around old-school Sonic mechanics and others designed around the modern-day Sonic, players will have a hard time not enjoying the fast paced nature of finishing levels and collecting as many rings as you can.

War has changed. An industry once dominated by game companies clashing over who had the best platforming mascot, has since been replaced by titans trying make the next best selling first person shooter. Yet, even in an era so cluttered with zombie apocalypse games or futuristic first person shooters, there still exists the occasional glimmer of hope for collectathon platforming fans. 

With Kickstarter-backed newcomer Yooka-Laylee releasing next early year, we've compiled a list of collectathon 3D platforming games you can play while you wait. And the best part is that you don't need to pull out your old N64 to play them! All of these titles can be found on modern day, high definition consoles!

Rock Band 4

Shut up, of course this counts.

I mean, what could be more cooperative than a Rock Band game? Rock Band 4, in particular, rewards cooperative play liberally, offering a fully-fledged career mode playable with up to 6 players simultaneously, as well as bonuses for playing together as a band. 

It's not like there isn't strategy involved here either. Anybody who has played a Rock Band game before knows that for the harder songs, coordination is key. Deploying and saving overdrive power at the correct time to save a partner after a particularly difficult section is absolutely necessary for success, and when you and your friends finally put everything together and nail that final setlist, there are few feelings like it. Rock Band games will always be amazing and singular cooperative experiences, and Rock Band 4 is no exception.

What do you think? Have we missed any great co-op games for the Xbox One? If so, let us know in the comments! We're always looking for more excuses to stay inside with friends on beautiful summer days.

Super Battletoads (Rare Replay)

Rare Replay offers a smorgasbord of content for gamers who grew up with the company, but for players looking for a co-op experience, the Battletoads games are king here. Obviously, the original NES game is great with a friend, but the port of the arcade game Super Battletoads is a gem that is often overlooked.

It's bloody, over-the-top, and unafraid to switch up game mechanics at a moment's notice. Plus, even though Rash, Zitz, and Pimple all play largely the same way, they each have distinct special moves and combos that make them feel very different. 

At the end of the day, Super Battletoads is pure fun, much like a Streets of Rage game. It's always satisfying to punch a miniboss in his crotch or watch your hand turn into a drill to savagely kill a downed enemy. If you own Rare Replay and have haven't given this game a try yet, you owe it to yourself to grab two buddies and settle in for a few hours of pure arcade action. 

Rayman Legends

Yes, it's been around pretty much since the Xbox One launched, but anybody who has played Rayman Legends knows that it still holds up. Its platforming, its atmosphere, its physics... The general way the game feels is astounding. It's that Super Mario World feeling of being completely engrossed in a challenging-yet-satisfying video game. There are few feelings like it.

But of course, the experience is better with friends. Rayman Legends has a gigantic roster of characters to unlock, and each of them can be controlled by a friend if you play the game cooperatively. In particular, the rhythm-platforming stages and challenge stages in Rayman Legends get incredibly frantic and fun when you play with a friend. If you haven't played this game yet, do yourself a favor and pick it up. It really is one of the best co-op platformers this generation has to offer.

Lovers In A Dangerous Spacetime

If the reviews (and my own personal opinions) are anything to go by, Lovers In A Dangerous Spacetime is not only one of the best co-op games on the Xbox One, but one of the most unique and interesting co-op experiences in recent history.

The basic gist of the game is that you and a friend have to pilot a bright circular ship through the depths of space, coordinating different functions via the ship's many terminals.

Constant teamwork is absolutely necessary, and to be completely frank, the thrill of completing a particularly difficult level with a friend (or significant other) is incredibly satisfying. It'll be almost impossible to resist the urge to high-five or hug your player 2 after a long gaming session.

Guacamelee: Super Turbo Championship Edition

Guacamelee has been around for a while, but the indie brawler-slash-metroidvania hit has also seen a whole bunch of content added through re-releases on the latest consoles. One thing that hasn't changed, though, is the fact that after a certain point in the game, one of your friends can take control of the luchador Tostada to aid you on your quest.

Now, of course, Guacamelee is tons of fun if you play alone, but playing co-op allows for opportunities for some frankly ridiculous team combos as you gain abilities and make progress in the game. Plus, as the game gets tougher, or when you decide to take on the game's many challenge stages, it's helpful to bring a buddy along.

Octodad: Dadliest Catch

Yes, I know what you're thinking. Octodad is a single player game! Switching off levels doesn't count as co-op! 

Well, just shut up for a second and let me explain. Octodad: Dadliest Catch actually features a pretty unique co-op mode where you and up to 3 friends can simultaneously take control of Octodad, with each player controlling different limbs.

It's awkward, difficult, and hilariously cumbersome.

It's also insanely fun, especially if players turn on "roulette mode", which intermittently randomizes the limbs the players control. Despite its ridiculousness, the mode really does require teamwork and coordination if players want to actually... well... accomplish any goals. Pour your pals some drinks (might I suggest these?) and give it a go.

The rumors of the death of couch co-op gaming have been greatly exaggerated. All of the current consoles have plenty of games that you and your friends can conquer together. Especially the Xbox One. So for you Microsoft gamers who are lovers and not fighters, grab a buddy, some brews, and a pizza. You and your player 2 won't be leaving the couch for a while. These are the best 6 couch co-op games on the Xbox One.

If nothing on this list suited your fancy, maybe action games aren't the way to go. These are the games I tend to play with my nieces and nephews, but there are a few family friendly genres that may work better for you.

For example, there are some good PS4 games for kids in the sports genre. They've got football, baseball, soccer and basketball games. 

Do your kids have the need for speed? Maybe you should get them... Need for Speed. See what I did there? 

Puzzle games may be another way to go. Brothers -- A Tale of Two Sons, The Road Not Taken or Perfect Universe are other kid-friendly PS4 games to look into. 

Good luck, and don't forget to play these games with your kids! I know I always appreciated it when my Dad took time to play with me, and it's some of the only bonding time I really get with my nieces and nephews. 

LEGO Marvel Super Heroes

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• Release Date: October 22, 2013
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• Price: $18.99
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What little boy doesn't love Marvel superheroes? Actually, scratch that -- what person alive doesn't like these guys?

This game's been out for a while and is a blast for everyone. You get to play as a bunch of different characters, each with different powers. Not only the Avengers, but also characters like Spiderman, Wolverine and Mr. Fantastic.

Even though there's cartoon violence, it's not gory at all. It's just LEGOs! 

Just Dance 2016

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• Release Date: February 18, 2014
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• Price: $19.56
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The great thing about Just Dance 2016 versus many of the previous dance games is that it doesn't require PlayStation's camera system (PlayStation Move.) Instead, you download a free app to your smart phone that pairs with the game.

That said, if you don't have a smartphone, you will need the PlayStation Move system to play.

This is a great family or party game- as long as you aren't too afraid to embarrass yourself. (Or, in my case, embarrass everyone else for not having my kinda skillz.)

Rayman Legends

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• Release Date: February 18, 2014
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• Price: $19.56
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Rayman Legends is a fast-paced side scroller. It's a great pick for both kids and adults, as the non-stop action will entertain just about anyone. It's a very kid friendly PlayStation 4 game, although there is some cartoony, non-gory violence. 

Knack 

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• Release Date: November 15, 2013
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• Price: $18.49
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Knack was one of the games that launched with the PS4 a few years ago. You play as a experimental robot that can transform itself to deal with different situations. 

It's very kid-friendly, although (going with the trend) there is some violence in this game. 

Hasbro Family Fun Pack 

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• Release Date: October 20, 2015
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• Price: $23.75
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 Somehow this game seemed to skate under the radar. Maybe because the concept isn't exactly revolutionary. This is basically a 4 pack of classic games -- Monopoly, Risk, Trivia Pursuit and Scrabble. 

...but don't let the simplicity fool you. This game is actually a lot more fun than just playing the board games, because the PS4 graphics help bring it to life. It's a great PS4 kids game that lets them with friends and family or against people on the PlayStation Network. 

And paying less than $24 for all 4 games is a no-brainer. 

The LEGO Movie Videogame 

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• Release Date: February 7,  2014
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• Price: $15.99
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The LEGO Movie was a lot funnier than I think most people expected -- myself included.

And even though playing the game isn't quite the same as seeing the movie for the first time, it's still a lot of fun! You play as Emmett, and meet all of his crazy new friends along the way.

This is another co-op game-up to two players can play at once. 

Minecraft 

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• Release Date: September 4, 2014
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• Price: $18.00
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Minecraft was designed almost as a joke, but has taken the world by storm. People of all ages have built all kinds of crazy things, from enormous cities and castles in the sky to deep, dark dungeons. 

There are two ways to play -- Survival and Creative. Survival mode has some violence, there's no blood. A few blocks fall apart -- that's about it. If your kids choose to play Creative Mode, there's zero violence because the goal of that mode is to just build whatever you want! 

Another good thing about this game is that your kids can play together, which makes building go much faster! 

Little Big Planet 3

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• Release Date: November 18, 2014
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• Price: $17.92
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If I had to pick just one PS4 game for kids to recommend, it's Little Big Planet 3. It was clearly designed to be kid-friendly, although adults have loved the game, too. 

It's basically an adventure-puzzle game, where you use these stringy little heroes through various levels and obstacles. 

The best part is that it can be played co-op. Either you can play with your children, or they can play with each other. Can't beat that for less than $18 bucks!

Disney Infinity 3.0 Edition

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• Release Date: August 28, 2015
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• Price: $41.78
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This one is a mixed bag to be honest. Kids LOVE the Disney Infinite game, which now has 3 different editions. Each edition added new characters and content.

The bad news is that Disney recently announced they won't continue adding content to the game. But you can still buy everything they've already released, and your children will get hours and hours of enjoyment from it. 

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles™: Mutants in Manhattan 

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• Release Date: May 24, 2016
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• Price: $49.99
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Growing up, I couldn't get enough of the Ninja Turtles. I watched the movies, played all the video games, had the action figures... you know the drill. 

Just like you'd expect, this game will have some PG violence to it. But if your kid is old enough to appreciate the TMNT without being influenced to beat up everyone around them, this is a great option. 

Finding the right PS4 games for kids isn't easy. Most games tend to be fairly violent and are tailored towards older kids, if not teenagers. 

Fortunately, there are a lot of great family-friendly games out there. If none of the following games sound appealing to you, there are a few genres that are typically very family-friends. Racing and sports games come to mind, as well as puzzle games. 

Don't see the game you're looking for here? Check out our other best games lists here: 

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•  Family-Friendly Fun: 9 Best PS4 Games for Kids in 2018
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• 12 Best PS4 Games for Kids in 2017
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Rayman Origins, the 2D platformer that Ubisoft Montpelier released back in 2011,  is now available on Xbox One. (Not to be confused with Rayman Legends that has been available in the Xbox One store for a while.) Because of the Xbox's backwards compatibility function, the game has been ported to the One from the 360 for no additional cost.

The Xbox One backwards compatibility feature has been popular with users since it was announced, and is quickly making more games available on the console. Along with Rayman Origins, there's a wealth of other 360 titles available on the Xbox Store, including Gears of Wars 2, King of Fighters ‘98, and Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Vegas. There are more games being added daily.

Quick tip: if you save your game to Cloud Saved Games, you will be able to play your saved games on any console. This also keeps your saved games, achievements, DLC, and gamerscore -- which is a relief.

Everyone has their favorite game genre. RPG, FPS, puzzle, RTS, MMORPG...the list could go on.

The popularity of individual genres comes and goes in waves. Right now we're in a third-person action RPG phase. A few years ago we were amidst the big first-person shooter boom. Somewhere before then, RPGs dominated all but the sports game market -- and right in the middle of that period came the fall of platformers, the genre many who played games in the late 80s and early to mid-90s grew up with.

I grew up in that era, and like many others I cut my gaming teeth on Super Mario Bros. 3. Later I moved onto Kirby and Sonic, devoured Mega Man and Castlevania, then spent ages demolishing Rareware's N64 offerings, Spyro, and Crash Bandicoot. Some move on from platformers but I have not. Platforming games are all I need.

Within reason.

Someone outside of the retro or indie gaming communities may assume the platforming genre is dead. After all, how many big name platformers have been released in the past few years? And don't point toward third-person action adventure games like Uncharted and modern Tomb Raider as examples. They may have "jumpy bits" but they are certainly do not fit within the overarching "platforming" genre.

Platforming isn't dead, it's just not AAA anymore

Despite the genre's current "sleeper" status, there are still plenty of good platformers released today for both consoles and PC. One look at Steam's "Platformer" tag coughs up 630+ results, and a sizable portion of the best on there were released within the past three or four years.

So why is it the platforming genre is generally considered "dead"? At a time when more platformers are being released than ever, one can only assume it's simply because AAA developers/publishers aren't putting them out, with the odd game in the genre released by a big publisher being minimally marketed.

Sorry, Rayman Legends.

You can take the above as it is and go, "Yep, that's it!" but the issue may just be more complex than the exclusion by big publishers.

On one hand we have a woefully small pool of marketed platforming games these days, but on the other hand we have...well, a really mixed bag of indie releases.

The genre is one of the biggest among the indie development community. Indie platformers come in all styles, difficulties, types, and quality levels. And the quality levels are where people who are less familiar with the indie scene have trouble -- with platformers being one of the easiest genres to make, there are a ton of indie releases in the genre that are less than spectacular.

In the land of indie platforming games

There are 630+ games on Steam tagged as being platformers. But what percentage of that 630+ is worth your time? Not a ton, but wading through the indie game pools can lead to some truly stellar platforming experiences.

There are a lot of great games of the genre on Steam, but let's be real: A lot of what's available isn't exactly what most people would even consider halfway good.

Spelunky is, though. You should play it.

I'm not saying this is indicative of the average quality of platformers today, but it is something that every modern fan of the genre that plunges into the grimy depths of indie platforming games has to bear in mind when they're looking for something new.

Now let's be totally clear: Some of the indie-developed platforming games I've played over the past few years fit very snugly into my list of favorite games: La-Mulana, Spelunky, Risk of Rain, Freedom Planet, Wings of Vi, Rogue Legacy, Rabi-Ribi -- these are just a few of the indie platformer offerings that have won my heart (and rage) over the past three years. And each one is insanely different, showing creativity in the genre isn't dead.

It'd be too easy to lament the amount of not-so-great options out there these days, but variety is the spice of life. Many new developers migrate towards the genre because it's easiest to dive right into making, and everyone has to start somewhere. And that somewhere may lead to something truly special later.

The future of platforming

You may not see advertisements for the genre anymore, but it is by no means dead. Indie developers have kept the platforming train chugging along, filling the genre with respectable games and keeping the hype alive for what's to come.

Platformers may be hiding in the corners of both hardcore and casual gaming for now, but it's not going to be that way forever. The genre dips in and out of popularity as soon as another genre strangles the market share, but it never goes away. It never will -- platforming is one of the few genres developers haven't squeezed all the potential from, and it's possible they never will.

While I am eagerly awaiting upcoming indie platformer darlings Mighty No. 9 and Yooka-Laylee, even without those big names coming I could do just fine with what's else is on the pipeline. There's so much in terms of the platforming genre today, it's hard to get dissatisfied with what's available, even among the sub-par options. There are just too many good platformers out these days to count, much less let the bad wash away the good.

Just because platforming games don't get the attention they used to doesn't mean they're dead, and it certainly does not mean there aren't any amazing recent releases. Platforming is the one genre that can stand the test of time -- and right now it's standing quite proudly, regardless of its current marketing clout.

1. Rayman Legends

When talking about local co-op games, one title that you’ll find constantly gets mentioned is Rayman Legends, and with good reason. Not only is it one of the greatest local co-operative experiences you can have on the PC, but it’s also one of the best platformers ever made.

It may be of the 2D, retro variety, but that doesn’t make Legends any less brilliant. In fact, it’s that classic style mixed with a modern engine and beautiful graphics that pushes the game to the top of the class.

The two-player cooperative element is one of Legends' outstanding features. Thanks to its intuitive gameplay, it won’t be long before you and your fellow gamer are both flying through the levels in an almost total synchronization. It can be quite a beautiful sight, seeing the two characters moving in perfect unison. But the best part of the game are the astounding musical levels, which represent some of the best design and use of music I’ve ever seen in a game.

If you and your local gaming partner fancy competing against each other, then you can give the awesome Kung Foot mini-game a go. You could also try out the challenge of the day, attempt to break some online records, play some classic levels, or unlock more characters/worlds. Rayman Legends will keep both you and the person sharing your couch happy for a long time.

Simple to play, hard to complete, utterly brilliant, and still the best local co-op game around.

What are your favorite co-op games to play on PC? Let me know down in the comments.

2. Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light

I used to find the idea of blending Tomb Raider with an isometric shoot-‘em-up had the same level of appeal as eating chips while on the toilet: I could see how some people may enjoy it, but it just seemed a bit too weird for me.

But eventually I decided to live dangerously and give it a try (the game, not the toilet thing) and I was very pleasantly surprised. It may be six years old, but Guardian of Light is a genuinely excellent two-player co-op game. I'd even go so far as to say that it's one of the best I've ever played.

The combat in Guardian of Light is outstanding, using the familiar twin-stick shooting method that always brings to my mind one the granddaddies of the genre – The Chaos Engine (yes, I’m very old).

The puzzles manage to hit that sweet spot of being neither frustratingly taxing nor insultingly simple - you’ll certainly have those Eureka moments when you figure some of them out. Its RPG elements add another layer of depth to proceedings, and some of the later weapons are enormous fun to use.

Working together is essential in this game and a complete joy -- it really is one of the most underrated local co-op titles ever made. Give it a try ASAP. But avoid the sequel, it’s pants.

3. Rocket League

There are few things to say about Rocket League that haven’t already been said. Its incredibly engaging mix of soccer and RC vehicles makes it one of the most addictive games of all time. Not only is very easy to pick up and play, but its five-minute matches make it one of the few modern titles that you can “have a quick go” on.

The local co-operative option is provided via split screen and two controllers. While splitting a TV in half isn’t everyone’s favorite way of adding a local player, it’s pretty much the only option for this kind of game.

Playing with a friend can be great fun, and having your teammate physically sitting next to you means that communication and strategizing is a lot easier. Few things are as satisfying as when you and your gaming partner hammer some total strangers who are on the other side of the world.

4. Portal 2

Portal 2 is a magnificent game, and easily one of the best puzzlers ever created. But what a lot of people don’t realize is that the two-player co-op mode, which can be played locally using split-screen, is even better than the single-player game.

Valve appreciate show much people love co-op games, and has included a separate campaign with a unique story, test chambers, and two new player characters just for this mode.

If you do try out Portal 2’s local co-op, you’ll be amazed at how different it feels from playing solo. You’re likely to spend half the time talking through the puzzles with your gaming partner, trying to figure out what to do. Then it’s a case of working together to put the plans into action. Few games teach people to work together and communicate as well as Portal 2 – it should be used in relationship counseling.  

5. Broforce

Getting constantly compared to Contra makes any game brilliant in my book. And the fact that you can use Rambo (or Rambro, as he is known here) to kill Satan is the icing on the Broforce cake.

Not only is Broforce a rock-hard, side-scrolling, platform shooter, but it’s also a love letter to the cheesy action movies of the 80’s and 90’s. It may be gloriously silly, but it certainly isn’t stupid. The cool pixel art style, numerous recognizable ‘bro’ characters, and the destructible graphics make playing the game in local co-op mode both brilliant and hilarious. If Chuck Norris made PC games, he’d make Broforce.

6. The Lego series

Even though they’ve been around for over a decade now, the Lego games tend to be the first name a lot of people think of when you mention co-operative two-player titles.

The combination of simple, fun gameplay and brilliant humor provides the licensed Lego games with some of the best local co-op experiences in PC history. The puzzles that require two characters to work together range from simple to fiendish in their difficulty, and completing them gives players a real sense of achievement.

But if they’re so good, how come they’re at number six? Well, as enjoyable as they are, their format hasn’t changed much in ten years, and familiarity breeds contempt, as they say. Despite the latest entry in the series, Lego Dimensions, introducing a Skylanders-like toy-to-life element, it doesn’t really add much extra to the co-op play.

As for which games are the best in the Lego series, I personally find the Indiana Jones and Harry Potter titles to be the apex of the series, while the aforementioned Dimensions entry is regarded as the most enjoyable in recent years. Good co-op fun for all the family.

7. The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth

While The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth may feature the kind of same-screen, local co-op play suitable for the living room, the game is about as appropriate for kids as an Aphex Twin video – and about as darkly twisted.

You wouldn’t expect a title based on both religious and semi-autobiographical attempted filicide to be a fun-packed romp, but it is. It’s important to point out, though, that although the game does have a co-op mode -- the second player takes the role of a floating baby who can’t pick up items (they’re shared) or enter rooms (Isaac has to lead).

Despite the reduced functionality of player two, Rebirth’s top-down, twin-stick shooter gameplay and randomly generated dungeons make it a hugely enjoyable experience for both players. Be warned, though, it does have several rogue-like elements, including being hard as nails and permadeath. Lose all your health before making it through the eight levels, and it’s back to the start.

The PC may be a brilliant gaming platform, but it’s always been viewed as the inferior option when it comes to local co-op games. As much as I love 1440p resolutions, Steam, cheaper titles, and the ability to play games at more than 60 frames per second, I do lament the fact that so few desktop titles are created with local co-op in mind.

In recent years, however, this trend has slowly started to change. Rather than the usual small handful of titles that feature local co-op modes, an increasing number of developers have begun to realize that the PC is making headway into the living room space that used to be reserved solely for consoles, and that their games should reflect this.

As more and more smaller, form-factor PCs and dedicated Steam boxes make their way beneath the family television, more PC owners want titles that feature local co-op modes. Sometimes it's better to play with family, friends and partners, than against them.

So, if you’re wondering what some of the best local co-operative games are on the PC, here are 7 that you should try. 

We're in the golden age of media. Everything is watched, anywhere and anytime with different franchises meshing into different forms of media. Video games are a huge money-maker, and the popular ones have been made into movies and comics in the past. So, why not take a stab at television?

Adapting a video game to a TV show instead of a movie would give it more room to breathe. Watch Marvel's newest show, Daredevil, on Netflix. It doesn't suffer from a 2 hour time constraint and has hours to flesh everything out.

So, what are some recent games that would work well on TV?

5. Fallout

Post-apocalyptic settings have been a popular trend for a while. Zombies, disasters, and much more have found their way into tons of media. So, why not make a TV show that combines all three? A Fallout show would work so well in the modern-day. Whether it be a Netflix-only show or cable TV show, the right company could capitalize on the success of the lore. 

The show could star a vault survivor as he travels across a desolate wasteland - à la Mad Max, except way more depressing. Throw in some interesting characters like raiders, ghouls, mutants and even Deathclaws, and you got yourself a show with a lot of breathing room for creativity. 

4. Rayman

This is kind of cheating because there was a Rayman TV show in the early 2000s. But, word on the street is that it was awful and only lasted four episodes. So, why should Rayman be revived? Well, look at the cartoons of today. Shows like Adventure Time and The Amazing World Of Gumball show immense creativity that could be applied to a Rayman cartoon. 

The Rayman video games have had a bit of a come back with Origins and Legends, showing there is a vast world of color and characters to choose from. The team behind Adventure Time could potentially churn out a fantastic Rayman show. That is, if John Leguizamo returns as Globox...

3. The Last Of Us

The only thing more popular than post-apocalyptic settings are zombies. Ever since Robert Kirkman's The Walking Dead, zombies have been at the forefront of pop culture, and one of the most critically acclaimed games to feature them is Naughty Dog's The Last Of Us. Easily one of the best-reviewed games ever, a TV show about the rise of the outbreak from the beginning through the 20 years to where the first game takes place would work really well.

It wouldn't have to follow the games' protagonists Joel and Ellie, and could be about a different group of survivors battling the infected and ruthless human begins. There aren't many really scary TV shows on today, but The Last Of Us could fit the bill.

2. The Witcher

Throwing away all the political jargon and who-done-it type stuff from The Witcher game series, at the core they're very simple. Witchers are monster slayers. Got a ghoul in your back yard? Call a Witcher. Vampire bugging you? Call a Witcher. Ex wife a Succubus? Even if they're not, call a Witcher. Heck, they even handle ghosts and demons. 

The point is, when Geralt isn't tangled up in love triangles or political affairs, he's doing what he is trained to do - and that is getting hired to kill monsters. A show about a Witcher taking a different job each episode would be like Supernatural meets Lord Of The Rings, and that's definitely something worth watching. 

1. Borderlands 

Okay, again this is cheating. Borderlands already has episodic content being developed by Telltale, and it's great. However, it shouldn't stop there. The Tales From The Borderlands game showcases that Pandora and the universe these characters inhabit have many stories to tell.

The Borderlands universe is a lot like Mad Max but on crack. There's a lot of action, but none of the gloominess Mad Max or the previous entires on this list would have as a TV show. A Borderlands show could be about a group of vault hunters going from vault to vault, just like the first two games - except this time they shouldn't be a well-oiled team. They should be a team just starting out so the show would have character development. 

All in all, there are a ton of games that would translate very well to the small screen. With studios taking more chances on lesser known things, seeing one of these shows on a channel, streaming or not, would be very welcome. 

When it comes to making the leap into the next generation of consoles, it can be a bit daunting at first. Often it's either hastily made ports of games on older consoles, or completely new games you can't entirely trust will be worth your money. Even two years into the eighth console generation, and I still know plenty of people who are holding onto their PlayStation 3s, Xbox 360s, and even a few holding onto their Nintendo Wiis.

I too, wearily approached new-gen, waiting until only a few months back to finally make the plunge and buy an Xbox One. At the time, I had a few games already to play on it, but massive install sizes and buggy ports meant I still had plenty of landmines and headaches. It didn't matter that I had Advanced Warfare, Sunset Overdrive, and Halo: The Master Chief Collection -- I wanted a game that worked perfectly fine and I could be comfortable with. Something dependable but could show off the Xbox One's potential.

That's, where Rayman Legends came into the picture. The Games with Gold program for Xbox Live users gave out Rayman Legends one month, and I claimed it for the sake of prepping for my new console that was on the way. I had already completed almost all the content on PC, but still, it would be a great game to have available on my Xbox One.

I had no idea how true that statement would become.

When I first booted up my Xbox One, I spent a good while waiting for things to install and update. Then, I loaded up the main OS, and discovered just how fragmented and unfinished the process of setup still is. Need a web browser? Download it. Got a game on disc? Still have to install nearly all the data. Want demoes? That's adorable! Anyone just getting started with Xbox One is smacked right away with a wall of additional leg work

I was afraid I'd be waiting an entire day for things to install before I could get started, but then I started the download for Rayman Legends first. Seeing as Legends is a game originally built for last-gen, it amounts to only about three and a half gigabytes worth of data. By comparison, my copy of Advanced Warfare needed to install at least thirteen to twenty gigabytes to become partially playable.

Yet, despite being little more than a quick port with all the bonus content from pre-orders, the experience was astounding. As I said, I had played this on PC, but I never experienced it perform so well. There are practically no loading screens in Rayman Legends, just brief scene warps to transition you to the next level. It doesn't matter if you are in the middle of one of the game's most intense boss fights or just going to a different menu area -- the game performs beautifully and better than any other last-gen port I've gotten to try.

Not only do you get that, but the online features work great for both solo and online gamers alike. Competitive modes (other than Kung-Foot) are all based around time and skill trials with leaderboards. You race actively against the ghosts of other players, making it feel just like a regular competitive game, but are also allowed to just play on your own. No one can interrupt you, no one can mess you up, and the challenges regularly change to allow for new content.

You also have a cooperative game that is worth getting additional controllers for. Most people who make the leap to Xbox One and PlayStation 4 are in dire need of a reason to actually buy more than one controller. Good local gaming experiences are hard to come by, but Rayman Legends covers that. You can play all of the content cooperatively (or competitively if you're the mischevious type) with up to four players. It's also kid friendly, so you have something to play when the young ones come 'round.

There is not a single launch title for either new system that can boast equal flexibility and wealth of content.

Not only does Rayman Legends really demonstrate a notable leap in performance, and give new console owners plenty of things to do, but it also is the perfect alternative to whipping out a mobile game while you wait for other games to install and download.

Waiting for my first trio of games to set up was a breeze because I wasn't just sitting there, twiddling my thumbs idly. Instead, I was racing across one of the most beautiful landscapes of recent memory. Even now, when I want a brief break, I don't jump into a match of Domination or Team Slayer, but check out the latest daily challenge in Rayman Legends. It has easily become the second most played game on my system, behind Sunset Overdrive.

Normally, I'm hesitant about rebuying games for new systems. Sometimes ports just make you realize how much the times have changed, but rarely in such a positive way as Rayman Legends. It was a perfect game for Microsoft to give out via Games with Gold, and is easily one of the best games to start with, whether you're gaming on PlayStation 4 or Xbox One. I hope it helps you get into the swing of new-gen as much as it helped me. 

In an investor report from Ubisoft last month, it was revealed that The Division would be coming in early 2016 as would a yet-unannounced AAA game.

The news of the unannounced game was somewhat lost in the shuffle, but it's a very interesting tidbit. It's becoming increasingly uncommon for a publisher to reveal a game and release it within a year, but that's exactly what will happen with this game if the report is to believed. So what could that game be? Let's postulate!

Watch Dogs 2

Let's start with the most obvious option for an upcoming Ubisoft game, Watch Dogs 2. Ubisoft hasn't shied away from the fact that there will be a sequel to the hugely successful Watch Dogs, with the dev discussing the flaws of the original and hopes for the sequel. Then they admitted that a sequel would take a lot less time to develop. And finally the sequel recently appeared on the CV of a Ubisoft employee. So it's very obvious the game is on its way, and if Assassin's Creed is the benchmark for Ubisoft series, then it could become annual.

Therefore, Watch Dogs 2 seems the most obvious choice for the unannounced game. The original was a good game with tons of potential, much like the original AC. Watch Dogs 2 could definitely be Ubisoft's big surprise announcement at the close of the show.

Rayman Legends Sequel

A new Rayman is the second most likely choice. The sequel to the amazing reboot (Rayman Origins), Rayman Legends, was released in 2013. But not much has been said about the series since. Both games were critical and commercial smashes, reinvigorating the Rayman brand. So now seems like a good time for a sequel.

There's no evidence to back this up, especially considering Rayman creator Michel Ancel is hard at work on PS4 exclusive WiLD and another game that you will read about later. That being said, I still think a third installment is likely and fits the quick turnaround between announcement and release.

Beyond Good and Evil 2

Which brings us to the other game Michel Ancel is toiling away on. Or so we think. Actually, at this point we have no idea.

The original Beyond Good and Evil came out in 2003, 12 years ago. The cult classic warranted a sequel that was finally revealed in 2008, but hasn't been seen since. Rumors swirled that Ancel had left Ubisoft Montipelier and Beyond Good and Evil 2 was on-hold. And yet, as recently as 2013, Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot told Kotaku:

"I don't give comments anymore on BG&E2, because I think ... the next time next time we communicate we have to have something new. Not specific to the PS4 or any other platform.

He went on to confirm the status of the game:

"It's coming. Yep. I know some folks who are waiting."

It seems likely that we will see the return of Jade and Pey'j, but whether or not that happens this year is anyone's guess.

Prince of Persia Reboot

As much as I enjoyed Watch Dogs and Rayman, a rebooted Prince of Persia is the prospect that excites me most. It's easy to forget how popular and successful this series was, but the original trilogy was fantastic and inspired a movie in 2010. Also, lest we forget that Assassin's Creed was originally a Prince of Persia game. The last AAA Prince of Persia game came in 2010, so the series is ripe for a comeback.

The only evidence we have that Prince of Persia is even still alive, somewhere deep in the depths of Ubisoft, was a series of leaked images that were said to be a reboot of the franchise. Ubisoft has reportedly tried on a few occasions to start fresh with the series, which obviously never came to fruition, but maybe the game from which the above screenshot was taken will be the one. This one is the most left-field but also the most exciting.

Unknown IP

And of course, just to round out the bases, we have the potential for a brand new IP. When Watch Dogs was announced, it blew everyone away, due to the brand new concept and how amazing it looked. This started an E3 tradition for Ubisoft in which they now close out every show with a brand new game demo. They struck oil again when they showed Tom Clancy's: The Division for the first time and melted minds. Then last year they revealed the next Rainbow Six game, which was somewhat expected, but still a surprising concept. So what they will show this year is back to being a mystery.

Watch_Dogs 2 seems the obvious, safe bet. A new Rayman is also a possibility, but whether that series is AAA is debatable. Then we have the more unlikely choices of Beyond Good and Evil 2 and Prince of Persia. However, Ubisoft could easily be working on something brand new altogether. They are one of the biggest developers in the industry and are constantly working on multiple diverse games, so it's very easy to imagine another new IP being revealed and blowing our socks off.

So what do you think Ubisoft is going to unveil? What game do you want it to be? Will it be revealed at E3 or Gamescom? Let us know in the comments below!

Players rejoice, yet another weekend of gaming is upon us. We have worked long hours or studied hard to get here and the time has come to relax and enjoy some games. Below is a small list of games that may spark your interest.

Screamride

Screamride seems to be an amazing game that offers much more than just simplistic play. Screamride has multiple game modes to offer different styles of play for individual preference. The styles range from a theme park scream mode, where the player must keep the cart on the tracks while making the riders scream as much as possible, to a destructive mode that plays a little like Angry Birds - without the little pigs.  Also, if deciding between X1 and 360, know that X1 offers a level creator mode to allow for maximum enjoyment.

Rayman Legends

For the players looking for a cheap game to play, this one could be it for some players. Rayman Legends is now free for Xbox One gold subscribers, and could easily be enjoyed this weekend. Rayman is an ongoing series that has captivated players, and this installment is no disappointment at all. Plus with it being free for some players, they can't go wrong.

Valiant Hearts

Valiant Hearts is an indie game that I fully intended to get around to buying. Now that it's free on PS4 for Playstation Plus subscribers I had no excuse to not play it. Valiant Hearts is fun, beautiful, and even educational if players take the time to read the facts scattered throughout. 

Whatever games you play this weekend now that there is a wave of big launches nearing us and backlogs usually grow bigger. So, enjoy the long gaming marathons as the weekend passes by. What games will you be playing this weekend? Comment below.